Our Stories


Gravity, the unforeseen force that binds celestial bodies parallels the intricate connections that form between people. Our lives bring us encounters with countless people and sometimes our pass through each other’s orbit is fleeting, and other times there is a greater attachment which results in an expanded tribe. This project is intended to create moments of connection that may develop lifelong bonds or happy passing engagements, the longevity matters less than that the memory makes you smile. 


■Toni Fournier


Toni creating a winning jack-o-lantern?

Where did you grow up?
 Meredith, New Hampshire.  

What is your favorite thing about Peaks Island?
The sense of calm I feel, my energy shifting as I board the ferry.

What inspired you to begin The Brackett Series?
Not being a maker, I seek to surround myself with those who create. Through their eyes and creations the world is made more beautiful for the rest of us.

Do you have a favorite saying?
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. 
by Leonardo Da Vinci

Favorite time of day?
Sunrise, it always feels like another chance at whatever is still to do.

Coffee or Tea?
Coffee, unadulterated dark roast.

Guilty pleasure?
French fries



Where did you grow up?
In Massachusetts – the apple orchards of Harvard, and the old mill town of Pepperell from which my friends and I would bike for miles to get to a good swimming pond.

What is your favorite thing about Peaks Island?
From the moment I stepped onto this island some 25+ years ago I loved the wildness of it all.

What inspired you to begin The HandmadeEffect?
I think art has a broader net and greater catch than often given. This program is to carry forward the vastness and beauty of people making meaningful stuff.

Favorite time of day?
Quiet mornings.

Coffee or Tea?
English Breakfast with milk, my favorite.



■Laura Glendening

Laura soaking up the sun on Sandy Beach on Peaks Island.



■Barry Shaw

Barry and Hobbes enjoying a day on Mooselookmeguntic lake.

Where did you grow up?
Detroit, Michigan

What is your favorite thing about Peaks Island?
Friendships and my porch office.

What inspired you to be involved with The Brackett Series and HandmadeEffect?
I believe the most wonderful art is taking useful things and making them beautiful—putting your good efforts into making the things we need to live.

Do you have a favorite saying?
I do, I have a bunch of them and this one stands out, it is from the end of Wendell Berry’s Mad Farmer poem:

Be like the fox
who makes more tracks than necessary
some in the wrong direction.
Practice resurrection.

Favorite time of day?
Dawn

Coffee or Tea?
Toss up

Guilty pleasure?
Gin & tonic, because it’s paradox—both good for you and not.



Where did you grow up?
Los Angeles, California

What is your favorite thing about Peaks Island?
The beautiful nature which is so close to an urban city.

What inspired you to be involved with The Brackett Series and HandmadeEffect?
I love to use my creativity to help others build their ideas.

Do you have a favorite saying?
Everything will work out in the end.

Favorite time of day?
Dusk

Coffee or Tea?
Coffee for energy, tea for relaxation.

Guilty pleasure?
Any and all sweet treats.

■Annie McLean
Graphic Designer

Annie at the Etosha Pan in Etosha National Park, Namibia

■Where to Reach Us

PO Box 164
Peaks Island, ME 04108

(207) 766-5705

hello@brackettseries.com